Ulrich of Augsburg

Saint Ulrich (Uodalric, Odalrici) of Augsburg was born in 890 (-973) at or near Augsburg and studied at the monastery of St. Gall. In 923 he became the bishop of Augsburg and a leader of the German church. Ulrich's family were Alamanni and Swabian. He personally lived in simplicity and poverty.

Repeatedly Magyars attacked in the territories of Bavaria and Swabia. Ulrich served as general in the defense of Augsburg. He built a stone wall fortification around the city. During these attacks many churches and buildings were destroyed, which Ulrich later on rebuilt.

Ulrich attended several imperial meetings and synods, such as at Ingelheim in 948, Augsburg 952, Rome in 972 and again at Ingelheim in 972.

German emperor Otto I the Great granted Ulrich the right to mint coins.

When Ulrich was too old and weak to say Mass, angels are said to have come to him to assist him. After he died in 973 he was buried at the St. Afra church in Augsburg. Later the St. Ulrich and Afra church was built in the same spot.

Places, that were named after him are said to contain healing abilities. Only 20 years after his death Saint Ulrich was one of the first ones to be officially canonized by Pope John XV on July 4, 993.

Gerhard of Augsburg wrote about St. Ulrich's life, the Vita Sancti Uodalrici and several books about his miracles have been written as well.